Leaky rim- inner tube?

[project 911]

I've got 3 piece OZ Racing wheels and have one that is leaking air around some of the bolts. I've tried redoing the silicone seal when the tire was off, but it didn't do the trick. Fix-A-Flat held it for a while.

Taking them apart isn't an option for me, so I'm wondering if I can have inner tubes installed? Any down-side to this?

Getting tired of pumping it up before every drive.

[Danny_Ocean]

I had mine re-sealed at a specialty tire shop. They let the silicone cure for a few days before re-mounting/filling. All is well. Did you use plain 'ole bathroom tub silicone? I believe they used silicone specially formulated for aluminum/metal bonding.

[project 911]

I cut some of the old silicone out of the slot, cleaned it with brake cleaner, scuffed the surface a bit and used automotive RTV silicone. I can't remember how long I let it dry before mounting, but it didn't seem to help things at all. Just one rim doing it.

[Danny_Ocean]

One wheel here, too. I believe you have to use a silicone that's made for bonding to aluminum. It is gray/aluminum in color. Give it another try.

I was thinking about doing the inner-tube as well, but the re-seal worked.

[Green 912]

Home Depot sells silicone for aluminum and other metal in the paint department/ Set a good bead in the slot, finger is smooth and you can put two bands of masking tap on ether side of the slot about 3/8th of an inch from the slot edge. Pull the tape as soon as you smooth the sealant. let it sit for a few days before mounting and pressurizing.

[klaucke]

Nothing wrong with an inner tube if all else fails. I wouldn't hesitate to use one.